Does Zinc Help T Cells?

T cells are an important component of the immune system.

Zinc may be one of the most crucial nutrients involved in the health and function of the immune system, according to the International Zinc Association. It has gained popularity for its use as a common cold preventative, possibly due in part to its ability to boost T cell function. T cells are an important component of the immune system, responsible for fighting off infections. Research shows that low levels of zinc correlate with reduced T cell function, whereas increased zinc levels in the body have shown to aid in T cell responses.

Zinc Basics

Zinc is known as an "essential trace mineral" because humans require it in very small amounts. Relative to other minerals, however, zinc is very abundant throughout your body, only second to iron in its concentrations, notes MedlinePlus. Zinc is necessary for wound healing, cell growth, cell division and immune function. According to the National Institutes of Health, because your body is unable to store zinc, you need to get a steady supply of it in your diet. Foods rich in zinc include beef, pork and lamb; good sources include whole grains, nuts and legumes.

T Cell Basics

T cells are one kind of white blood cell known as lymphocytes, that make up one part of the immune system. They protect the body from diseases and other threats in two major ways. Some T cells regulate and direct the body's immune responses and others directly eliminate infected cells. Different types of T cells include cytotoxic T lymphocytes, or CTLs, and natural killer cells, or NK cells. NK cells have the ability to attack a wide range of foreign cells, whereas CTLs are especially effective in attacking viruses.

Zinc and T Cells

While zinc is known for its role in immune function, it may have a special relationship with T cells. According to the International Zinc Association, zinc is the most important of all the minerals for immune function, and it has a unique role in the function and health of T cells. According to the group, reduced levels of zinc are linked to weakened T cells that are unable to effectively neutralize threats and infections, while increases in zinc can help fight infections including diarrhea, pneumonia and the common cold.

Research

Research shows that zinc not only keeps T cells healthy, but it can also aid in the proliferation of these important immune-enhancing cells. A study published in 2011 in "The Journal of Experimental Medicine" found that increased zinc within extracellular fluid was able to increase the growth and multiplication of T cells. Another study published in 2010 in the "European Journal of Immunology" had similar findings and noted that increased zinc is required for both the proliferation and signaling of T cells.